Any car crash can leave you dealing with doctor visits, missed time from work, and mounting expenses. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries, you may be able to hold them financially liable for your damages. But what if they were a rideshare operator?
These cases can become more complicated when the at-fault driver was working through a platform such as Uber or Lyft. Our rideshare accident lawyers serving Florida can help you understand the legal issues surrounding your crash and take steps to protect your claim.
At Sweet James, we have the winning playbook, and we know how to deal with insurance companies. Our team has experience assisting injury victims for over 25 years. Call for your free consultation and learn more about how our rideshare accident lawyers can help.
Who May Be Responsible for a Rideshare Accident in Florida?
Unlike traditional employer-employee relationships, rideshare companies generally classify their drivers as independent contractors. That distinction can affect when a company may share responsibility for a driver’s actions, and it often shields companies from liability.
The driver’s activity on the rideshare platform, the circumstances leading up to the crash, and the conduct of other parties can all influence your ability to recover compensation. Our personal injury lawyers will investigate the crash to determine liability.
When the Rideshare Company May Be Liable
The insurance coverage available after a rideshare accident often comes down to what the driver was doing in the app at the time of the crash. Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage for drivers in certain situations, but the protection available can change.
Here is how rideshare coverage works:
- When a driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a trip, the rideshare company’s coverage may provide limited protection in certain circumstances.
- Once the driver accepts a ride request or begins transporting a passenger, broader commercial coverage from the rideshare company generally applies.
A rideshare company can be held responsible in some situations that are not related to how the driver behaves at the moment. For instance, the company might face issues if it did not properly check a driver’s qualifications or if it ignored signs about a driver’s past.
When the Driver May Be Responsible
If a rideshare driver caused your accident because they were careless, they might be responsible for the damage they caused. This includes actions like driving while distracted, speeding, breaking traffic laws, or driving unsafely.
Florida follows a No-Fault insurance system for automobile accidents, which means your own personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may provide benefits after a crash. However, serious injuries may allow you to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party.
Our personal injury lawyers serving Florida can examine the circumstances of your accident and determine which insurance policies and legal claims may apply.
Why Work With a Florida Rideshare Accident Attorney?
After a serious crash, you may find yourself trying to handle insurance companies while also dealing with your injuries and recovery. Our rideshare accident attorneys serving Florida can handle many of the vital actions involved in your legal claim.
A crucial part of what we do is investigate the details of your accident. This includes reviewing evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Understanding exactly what happened allows us to identify the parties who may be responsible and build a claim supported by evidence.
Calculating Your Damages After a Rideshare Crash
An accident can affect nearly every part of your life. We review the financial and personal impact of your injuries so your claim reflects the losses you have experienced.
Depending on your situation, the following compensation may be available to you:
- We may recover medical treatment expenses as well as your anticipated future healthcare costs.
- Our team will seek reimbursements for lost income and work benefits.
- We can often recover out-of-pocket expenses for household services you needed because of your injury.
- In many cases, we will seek non-economic damages for pain and suffering or emotional distress.
Every injury claim has its own challenges, and the value of your case depends on the specific facts involved. Our rideshare accident lawyers working in Florida will work to recover maximum compensation on your behalf.
Managing the Legal Process on Your Behalf
Rideshare claims often involve several insurance companies and complicated coverage issues. Our legal team will protect your interests throughout the claims process. We’ll talk to insurers on your behalf and prevent you from making common mistakes.
Many injury claims are resolved through settlement negotiations, but the insurance company’s first offer may not reflect the full impact of your injuries. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take additional legal action to protect your rights.
Florida law places deadlines on personal injury claims. Under Florida Statute § 95.11, many negligence-based injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. However, different circumstances can change the deadline that applies to a particular case.
Talk With Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers Serving Florida
An accident with a company such as Uber or Lyft creates confusion over who is responsible for your damages. Our rideshare accident attorneys serving Florida can investigate your collision and help you pursue compensation from the parties responsible.
Sweet James can help you handle the legal work that comes with your claim. We deliver personalized service focused on you. If you are looking for a “Florida rideshare accident lawyer near me,” contact our team today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
